in phases

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in phases" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a process that will be completed or done in sections, or over a period of time. For example, "The new product launch will be done in phases: first releasing the online version, then releasing the retail version".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It goes in phases.

The New York Times - Sports

I go in phases.

The New York Times

He added: "This goes in phases.

The New York Times

Instead, it was done in phases.

The New York Times

The reopening is scheduled in phases.

The New York Times

Clinical trials are conducted in phases.

Stanford University

Community social policy has developed in phases.

Columbia University

Then, in phases, try to control it south.

The New York Times

"You live your life in phases," he explains.

The Guardian

Anywhere else, they'd build it in phases over several years.

The New York Times - Magazine

The building is opening, in phases, from the top down.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When planning a large project, outline the different stages and use "in phases" to communicate how the project will be rolled out over time. This provides clarity and helps manage expectations.

Common error

Ensure that the phases you define are clear and distinct. Avoid creating too many small or overlapping phases, as this can lead to confusion and make the overall process seem more complex than it needs to be.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in phases" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate that an action or process is carried out in a series of distinct stages. As Ludwig AI confirms, it denotes a segmented approach to completing a task over time.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Academia

22%

Science

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

9%

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the prepositional phrase "in phases" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that describes a process or project that is implemented step by step. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's useful across various contexts, most notably in News & Media, Academia, and Science. While interchangeable with alternatives like "in stages", its selection depends on the specific nuance desired. When using this phrase, ensure that the stages are well-defined to maintain clarity and avoid unnecessary complexity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in stages

This alternative emphasizes the step-by-step nature of the process, similar to "in phases".

step by step

This highlights the sequential progression of the process, focusing on individual actions taken one after another.

in increments

Similar to "incrementally", this highlights the process of adding or progressing in small amounts.

incrementally

This emphasizes the gradual increase or progression of the process over time.

in a series of steps

This highlights that the process involves a sequence of actions performed in order.

by degrees

This suggests a slow and measured progression, emphasizing the small steps taken.

in sections

This emphasizes the division of a task or process into distinct parts.

gradually

This focuses on the slow and steady nature of the process, without emphasizing specific stages.

by installments

This is often used in the context of payments or deliveries, but can also apply to any process completed in separate parts.

piecemeal

This suggests a process done in small, often disconnected, parts over time.

FAQs

How can I use "in phases" in a sentence?

You can use "in phases" to describe a process that is completed over time in distinct stages. For example, "The building will be constructed "in phases" to minimize disruption."

What's a good alternative to "in phases"?

Alternatives to "in phases" include "in stages", "incrementally", or "gradually", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "in phases" or "in stage"?

"In stages" is generally more appropriate when referring to multiple steps in a process. "In stage" is more commonly used when describing something that is currently happening in a theatrical or developmental context.

How does using "in phases" affect the tone of my writing?

Using "in phases" can make your writing sound more organized and methodical, indicating that a process is well-planned and controlled. It suggests a structured approach to achieving a goal.